Every winter my skin struggles with the different changes in temperature, central heating and the cold winds wreak havoc on my skin’s moisture balance. I try to keep it as hydrated as possible and because having great skin is one of my top priorities i try lots of different things to get the best skincare products in my opinion that do work!

If your getting married in summer this year you should start pampering your skin now. Bridal make up lasts longer on hydrated and nourished skins. When your skin is too dry and flaky make up will just soak straight into it.

Brides to Be should treat their skin to a monthly masque and a daily hydrating skin treatment during the winter months.

I’m usually skeptical about anything that says it reduces the signs of ageing but I have to say that i was really impressed with this little gadget. Not only is it easy to use but you can carry on with your usual daily life while wearing it. I’m sure that wearing it walking down the street might attract a few glances though.

I wouldn’t say that I have wrinkles as such but I did notice one frown line appearing on my forehead in the last few months so trialing this Wrinkle MD Brow System couldn’t have come at a better time. The whole kit comes in a box and inside the box is everything you need for the 2 week treatment programme.

Follow with Youth Serum HA™ to extend results. Use twice a week for the first week, then once a week for continued results.

RRP £189.00

After I’d used all 5 of the patches in the pack i have continued to use the Youth serum twice a week and I can hardly see that there was a line there now. I have also had lots of comments about how great my skin looks because i use it all over my face and not just on the wrinkle. I will continue to use this product because I love it!

They also have a system for the eye area. I have yet to try this but I’m sure it too will have amazing results.

RRP £189.00

It’s definitely worth the money. For more information and to purchase the kit visit here

Infused with spheres of Marine Collagen Atelocollgen and exclusive antioxidant blend of vitamins A, C, E and green tea extract. This is a plumper that you can feel the stimulating effect working immediately. For those who want less of a sensation, apply a light layer of Lip Ritual prior to applying Lip Plumper.

These work by plumping lips by trapping water and swelling, thus providing volume to the skin’s structures.

Sheer tint base is similar to a tinted moisturiser. It gives a light to medium coverage. The colour i was given isn’t my skin tone so i only swatched it on my hand and not my face but i could tell from the texture that it felt nice and the coverage looked light, it’s a buildable product so adding more would give a more medium coverage.

£22.00

Talc-free formulation is non-comedogenic and provides broadspectrum UV protection and antioxidant benefits. The formulation not only covers and corrects, but also protects the skin, keeping it radiant and healthy.

GloTint for cheeks and lips is a sheer gloss that acts like a stain. You can amplify the colour by adding colour over the top of the gloss. I tried this on both lips and cheeks and like it but a word of warning, use a brush for application because it stained my fingertip for a little while because it’s so highly pigmented! It washed off though.

With my holiday pending and baggage allowances getting less and less the last thing I want is to have to take massive sized bottles. So here’s my Top 5 travel sized products to take away on holiday with you.

Dermalogica Skincare Kit – 10/10

I totally love Dermalogica it’s always going to be top of my list. This box lasts for 30 days!

This Dermalogica Skin Kit contains a full regimen of what your skin needs most. If you’re a first-time Dermalogica user, then prepare yourself for great skin. And, if you’re already hooked, these convenient travel sizes will bring professional skin care wherever you’re going today. Use as directed by your Dermalogica Professional Skin Therapist. 10/10 www.buy.dermalogica.co.uk

Nurture Mini Travel Collection – 9/10

Loved this range. My skin felt smooth and nourished. Wish there were more wipes in the pack!

nurture skincare offers a selection of great summer essentials packed with natural plant extracts such as edelweiss to help protect against free radical damage and suitable for even the most sensitive skin to make holiday packing simple and hassle-free. www.nurtureskincare.co.uk

Eau Thermale Avène Spring Water Spray – 10/10

I never go anywhere without this in my handbag. I use it on everyone before I apply their make up too! It hydrates the skin in seconds and feels so refreshing.

Keep refreshed in-flight with this cooling and soothing travel-size water spray. The softening and protective properties of the unique Avène Thermal Spring Water calms complexions and the low mineral content in the water, as well as its pH 7.5 (almost neutral) balance, will not sting, burn or dry out skin. What’s more it’s perfect for toning and refreshing flustered faces and cooling legs and body. www.boots.com

Soap and glory Clean Getaway – 9/10

Smells delicious and a great way to have a bit of girly pampering while you’re away! They should add a body scrub too.

When I was young I used to use Lipcote and it was a bit stingy so I reserved it for special occasions.

How pleasantly surprised was I to find that not only doesn’t it not sting anymore but it still makes your lip colour stay on really well. I put it to the test with a dark lip colour. I absolutely love it and it’s a great addition to anyone’s make up bag, Brides included. If you like to wear lipcolour on holiday too this is great because Lipcote waterproofs the lipcolour!

They even have lovely new packaging:

“Celebrating 50 years in beauty as lipstick’s best friend, Lipcote’s very own anniversary makeover reflects the zeitgeist of contemporary feminism, courtesy of a delicate yet brash new logo and packaging in collaboration with top illustrator, Dora, whose distinctive work is aptly inspired by 1950’s burlesque, Japanese print and age-old femininity.”

How to Apply:

Put on one coat of lipstick, blot with a tissue and add a 2nd coat of lipstick. Apply one thin coat of Lipcote.

I put Lipcote on first thing in the morning and 6 hours later it was still on even after eating and drinking all day.

Botox or Dermal Fillers? What should you choose? – Guest Post from Dr Michel Lauzel

How the ageing process affects our skin

As we age skin loses its smoothness, fullness and elasticity which leads to the appearance of lines, wrinkles or folds. The natural ageing process results in a:

– Loss of volume (fat)

– Loss of hyaluronic acid

– Loss of hydration

– Loss of collagen

– Laxity of muscles

The effects of the ageing process on the skin are increased by a number of environmental factors such as the sun (UV damage), gravity, smoking, alcohol, poor diet and hydration and sun beds.

Modern society is less accepting of signs of ageing – particularly the face we present to the world.

Due to a culture of youth, in the media and in the workplace, there is increasing pressure on women in particular to look younger for longer. Are there things we can do to improve the signs of ageing and hold back time?

What are the treatment options?

Amongst the different rejuvenation treatments available to counter the ageing process, cosmetic creams mostly don’t live up to their promises mainly because they can’t penetrate far enough to reach the deeper levels of the skin. And for most people surgery seems like a step too far.

There is however an effective middle route with anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers. These treatments are injected directly into the skin and offer the best option to restore a firmer, toned, healthy looking skin and smooth out lines and wrinkles.

Anti-wrinkle injections

Better known as ‘Botox’ these injections temporarily block the contraction of the muscles below the skin and by relaxing these muscles they effectively iron out and soften the lines and wrinkles caused by smiling, frowning and other facial expressions.

Anti-wrinkle injections are mainly used in the upper face to treat three areas where expression lines appear and typically provide a fresher look:

1. Crow’s feet

2. Frown lines

3. Horizontal forehead lines

They can also be used to treat other lines and wrinkles including bunny lines, smoker’s lines and to create a brow lift.

These injections have been used safely for medical treatments for over forty years, and can also be used to treat excessive underarm sweating. The treatment is relatively painless and the effect typically lasts between 3 to 6 months.

Dermal fillers

Dermal fillers consist of a smooth gel which is injected to replace the loss of volume in the face resulting from the ageing process and they lift the skin, improving the wrinkles and sagging.

The latest generation of fillers (such as Restylane or Juvederm) contain Hyaluronic acid, a natural substance present in the skin which bonds with water molecules to increase deep hydration and add to the plumpness.

Revitalising and improving skin elasticity, hydration and smoothness for the face, hands and decolletage area.

These hyaluronic based fillers have proven to be very safe, based on the experience of millions of patients treated worldwide. Generally the effect lasts between six and nine months.

Working closely with your practitioner, treatments can be used to create a natural, more youthful look. The aim is to look better not ‘done’ and retain your own facial expressions and personality. We can’t avoid ageing but we can soften its effects and the face we present to the world.

What should you expect during the treatment itself?

1. Make you sure you have a detailed discussion with your practitioner and you are clear about the effects you can expect from your treatment. A visual examination of your face, its movement and lines should be conducted by the practitioner and prescriber of the botulinum toxin.

2. Make sure your medical history is discussed in full, and that you have no underlying conditions which could make you unsuitable for treatment. You may find that your practitioner will always ask you to sign a consent form and take photos before (and after) treatments. This is completely normal.

3. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and remember it is a medical consultation and don’t feel pressured into having the treatment if you’re not sure about it.

4. No topical anaesthetic will be used for anti-wrinkle injections such as botox, although sometimes you may be given an icepack to place on the area prior to treatment. The area to be injected will be wiped with antiseptic and then using micro needles, tiny amounts of the botulinum toxin, will be injected into several points in the areas to be treated. For most people this is entirely painless and just feels like a ‘pinprick’.

5. Dermal fillers requite a topical anaesthetic, which is normally applied to the area to be treated 15 to 20 minutes beforehand. To make the patient experience even more comfortable, some fillers also have anaesthetic mixed with the filler inside the syringe.

6. Less is often more, and a good practitioner would prefer to see how you react to the treatment on your first visit, and offer a follow-up visit two weeks later with a ‘top-up’ if necessary.

7. Repeat treatments are normally needed around every 3 – 6 months to maintain the effects of the treatment.

8. The treatment and consultation usually takes no longer than 30 minutes and you are usually able to drive immediately afterwards and carry on with your day. It is not recommended that you lie down within 4 hours of the treatment, or embark in strenuous exercise on the day of treatment.

9. Following your anti-wrinkle injections (botox) you will not see any change for 2-4 days, with the treatment taking full effect between 7-14 days . The results last on average for 4 months. With fillers, the results are immediate, although it is advisable for the initial swelling at the injection site to go down to see the final result. It is not advisable to have treatment too close to a special event as some patients may experience bruising.

10. Anti-wrinkle injections such as botox are normally priced per number of areas treated. Eg Forehead lines classed as one area, crow’s feet (both eyes) a second area etc. Dermal fillers are priced per syringe which vary in size. To give an accurate cost of your treatment for dermal fillers- your practitioner will need to assess in person how much filler will be required for your specific treatment, and therefore the price.

Important questions to ask your practitioner

1. Are you a healthcare professional registered with the General Medical Council, General Dental Council or Nursing and Midwifery Council?

IMPORTANT: Always, always, always visit a reputable trained aesthetic healthcare practitioner who is experienced in facial injectable treatments. Ask ‘How long have you been trained in this area and do you have a certificate of accreditation?’

IMPORTANT: It is vital that the aesthetic healthcare practitioner has been trained to administer facial injectable treatments. Great results achieved with wrinkle relaxing injections are dependent on the technique of the practitioner – training and precision are essential when carrying out such delicate procedures. Don’t be afraid to ask for proof of their experience and training in facial injectables.

2. What products are you recommending to me and why?

IMPORTANT: If you want a specific product, ask for it by name. If you don’t have a particular brand in mind, then your practitioner should always provide an explanation for the brand of treatment they intend using.

3. Can I see the original packaging so I am assured of receiving the genuine product?

IMPORTANT: You may see the original packaging of the injectable treatment you are receiving. However, if it’s not visible to you, just ask to see the packaging so you know you are receiving the authentic product you have either asked for or been advised you will be receiving. Ask for the patient information for the products as well.

4. What are the possible risks or complications with these treatments?

IMPORTANT: Your practitioner should talk you about the risks of the non-surgical treatments in detail prior to treatment.

5. What level of aftercare will I be entitled to following my treatment?

IMPORTANT: Most professional aesthetic healthcare practitioner should offer a complimentary follow-up appointment, particularly on your first treatment. This will be a good opportunity to highlight any concerns you may have.

BIO:

Dr Michel Lauzel is a French fully qualified medical doctor specialising in non-surgical aesthetic treatments (Harley Street trained). He is registered with the GMC in the UK. He runs a number of successful clinics at salons/spas in Berkshire, Bedfordshire, Dorset, Hampshire, Hertfordshire and Middlesex.

When I meet a bride for the 1st time I do a consultation. Asking here about her skincare, how much make up she normally wears on a day to day basis and what she would like to achieve for her wedding day make up! Then a trial bridal make up is done with the wedding hair style at the same time if possible. Once the bride to be is happy with her look. This is what i will use for her wedding day.

I decided to write this post so that brides can see a breakdown of what I use to create their bridal make up. Here is a photo of a bridal model and below the image I have listed everything I used to create the look.

The prices are based on middle to high end high street brands. The same longevity of make up colour would not be achieved by the lower end brands. The brands i would use are professional brands and I use them because of the high pigment colour in them and they stay on the skin longer so the bride won’t need her make up touched up for at least 12 hours (apart from the lipstick).

Skin

Cleanser – £20.00

Toner – £25.00

Moisturiser – £30.00

Make Up

Primer – £30.00

Foundation x 2 £30.00 each

Concealor – £14.50

Powder – £20.00

Contour Powder – £20.00

Blusher – £15.00

Eyeshadows x 3 £30.00

Eyeliner Pencil – £10.00

Eyeliner gel – £16.00

Brow Pencil – £10.00

Mascara – £15.00

Strip lashes – £8.00

Lip Balm – £6.00

Lip Pencil – £10.00

Lipstick – £15.00

Lip gloss – £15.00

Make up setting spray – £17.00

Brushes

Foundation brush – £25.00

Concealor brush – £15.00

Powder brush – £25.00

Contour/blusher brush – £18.00

Brow Brush – £12.00

Eyeshadow brush – £15.00

Eyeshadow Blending brush – £15.00

Lip Brush – £15.00

Disposables

Tissues – £2.00

Cosmetic Cotton buds – £1.00

Mascara wands – £1.00

If someone has skin issues they made need more products. Hydration for dry skin. Blemish cover for breakouts or high colour on skin. These products used are for a blemish free skin and its the minimum i would use for a bridal make up.

Last year I found a brand of make up that I had never tired before and having darker skin myself I find the high street brands are too ashy once applied onto darker skin. I tried the French brand Make Up Atelier Paris and was extremely happy with the results! They have a foundation shade for every skin tone and it blends really easily on the skin, plus no ashy after effect. The great thing is its now available in the UK too. I use this make up personally and professionally!

Increase in adult acne!

Over the last few years there has been an increase in acne among adults. There are many factors that can cause acne and several types of acne.

I have never suffered from acne personally but I have treated many of my clients over the years and with great success. I believe that there isn’t a one size fits all solution and that every single one of my clients has had to be treated as an individual. This is how I treat every single person that comes to me with a skincare issue.

There are 4 grades of acne

Grade I – Pimples, commedones (blackheads) and milia (whiteheads) these appear in small clusters but are not inflamed and appear and disappear on the skin. This can be treated with skincare products and a good skincare routine.

Grade II – Pimples, commedones (blackheads) and milia (whiteheads) appear in larger numbers over the face and sometimes the upper body. They will appear inflamed with redness around the areas of congestion. Papules and pustules will start to form if left untreated. This can be treated with a skincare products and a good skincare routine. Avoid squeezing the inflamed areas.

Grade III – Papules and pustules are more apparent. The skin appears more red and inflamed. Nodules (lumps) appear under the skin and if left untreated there is an increased risk of scarring. The papules and pustules can become infected at this stage and this is the main reason for the scarred tissue know as pitting. this type of acne will need treatment by a dermatologist. This may be a topical and oral medication type of treatment over a period of several months.

Grade IV – This is the most sever kind of acne. The skin is over sensitised and there are more papules, pustules, milia and commedones. The skin appears very inflamed. The acne can cover the face, neck, upper arms and torso. This type of acne is also known as cystic acne. Cysts and nodules are more apparent and there is a very high chance of scarring on the skin. This type of acne can only be treated by a dermatologist.

Many acne sufferers try to cover up their breakouts with make up but this can make the problem worse. Some of my clients have stripped there skin with alcohol based products thinking this will stop the oil. In fact it increases the sebum (oil) production.

Getting good skincare advice from a skin therapist will help. Some products containing benzyl peroxide or salicylic acids are great for reducing the sebum and exfoliating the excessive skin cells that cause acne.

Treatment Advice

Don’t pick or squeeze the pimples this can lead to scarring.

Avoid using harsh and irritating products on the skin, they cause breakouts.

Let your skin breathe. Caking it in make up isn’t going to help the acne especially if the make up contains pore clogging ingredients.

Don’t over clean your skin. By this I mean washing twice daily is enough anymore and you will over sensitise the skin and make it more irritable.

If you think you have more than Grade II acne speak with your GP who can start you on treatment or refer you to a dermatologist.

If you’d like to talk to me about your skin. You can contact me through the website.

At the start of 2012 I had so many different ideas in my head but I had no clue that it was going to be such an amazing year! Here are some of my favourite shoots of 2012. Make up hair by Brides and Beauty!